The Armenia international had a difficult start to life at Old Trafford, but he has since impressed in United’s nine-game unbeaten run.

And Redknapp believes Mkhitaryan has been the key in The Red Devils’ recent upturn in form.

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Jamie Redknapp believes Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been key to Manchester United's good form

“Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been a big part of it [Manchester United’s return to form],” Redknapp told Sky Sports.

“He had a difficult start to life at Old Trafford, but I think back to their game against Tottenham in December as a big moment in their season.

“I remember covering that game and thinking Spurs could easily go there and get a draw, but Mkhitaryan came into the United team and he lifted the place. He added that extra quality and scored an excellent goal.

Manchester United line-up predicted to face Liverpool

Fri, January 13, 2017

Click through the gallery for the predicted Manchester United line-up to face Liverpool

Click through the gallery for the predicted Manchester United line-up to face Liverpool

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Jose Mourinho has been impressed with Manchester United star Henrikh Mkhitaryan

“Everyone has their own opinion and Jamie Carragher said at the time that it was good management by Mourinho to hold Mkhitaryan back, but I felt the opposite. I thought it showed what position they might have been in if he had been playing.

“United have won seven consecutive games since then and you can see how Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic enjoy playing with him.

“Having two world-class players is great, but if you have another one it takes the pressure off them.”